14 Classic Circle Jerks Songs You Gotta Know
Formed in 1979, the Circle Jerks were known for their fast and energetic music, along with their politically charged lyrics. The band consisted of the legendary Keith Morris (vocals [who is now the singer for OFF!]), Greg Hetson (guitar), Roger Rogerson (bass), and Lucky Lehrer (drums). For those who don’t know, the name derives from … the sexual thing. And yes, they did it to shock people, and yes, it worked. But, overall, the Circle Jerks are one of the bands who grew the punk rock scene in the underground during the 1980s, and they are awesome (to say the least).
Wild in the Streets
The f*cking banger known as “Wild in the Streets,” by the Circle Jerks, gets my heart boiling every time it kicks on. It captures the rebellious spirit of the punk rock movement and has become one of the band’s signature tracks. With its fast-paced instrumental energy and defiant lyrics, “Wild in the Streets” is a quintessential punk anthem that resonates within all of us.
Live Fast Die Young
From the Circle Jerks’ album Group Sex, “Live Fast Die Young,” has catchy guitar riffs, energetic drums, and raw vocals. The lyrics reflect a nihilistic attitude and embrace a fast-paced, self-destructive lifestyle. With its anthemic chorus and aggressive sound, “Live Fast Die Young” represents the essence of punk rock. It encourages listeners to live on their own terms, regardless of the consequences. Despite the title’s suggestion of a short-lived existence, the song has remained influential to this day, 40+ years after its creation (in 1980).
Group Sex
“Group Sex” was released in 1980 as the title track of the Circle Jerks‘ debut album. The lyrics are about … you know. Leave to a band named after an act to create a song about bringing more people in. I mean, punk is about community soooo I guess that’s one way to do it.
Coup d’Etat
Known for its fast and energetic tempo and rebellious lyrics, “Coup d’Etat” was another track released on the Circle Jerks‘ debut Group Sex. Featured in the movie Repo Man, the song captures the band’s raw and aggressive sound. Plus, who doesn’t love a good track about taking over the government.
Deny Everything
“Deny Everything” captures the punk ethos of questioning the flaws in our society. With this 30 second song, the Circle Jerks aim their sights at our country’s prison system.
World Up My Ass
Damn, if this isn’t one of my top favorite punk rock songs. “World Up My Ass,” by the Circle Jerks, is catchy and to the point, a song I need for those days when all I want to tell the world is “f*ck off.” The lyrics express frustration, disillusionment, and a desire to break free from societal norms.
Beverly Hills
The Circle Jerks‘ Golden Shower of Hits album, “Beverly Hills” criticizes and satirizes the extravagant and materialistic lifestyle associated with the city of Beverly Hills. A cult classic for punk rock fans around the world.
Red Tape
“Red Tape” aims its sights at the bureaucracy and inefficiency of government systems. The term “red tape” symbolizes excessive bureaucratic regulations and procedures that impede progress. With its raw sound and rebellious attitude, “Red Tape” has become a classic punk rock anthem that expresses the frustration and anger of its time.
I Just Want Some Skank
Also from the album Group Sex, “I Just Want Some Skank” reflects the desire for excitement and spontaneity prevalent in the punk scene, embodying the youth culture and anti-establishment sentiments of that time. The catchy guitar riffs, aggressive vocals, and straightforward lyrics of the song epitomize the liberating ethos of punk rock. While some may view the lyrics as provocative or controversial, it’s crucial to understand them within the context of the punk movement, where challenging societal norms was a fundamental aspect of the music.
Killing for Jesus
Leave it to the Circle Jerks to drop a song like “Killing for Jesus.” With its confrontational title, the song explores religious fanaticism and the moral justifications behind violence committed in the name of a higher power. This fast-paced punk rock anthem challenges societal norms and encourages listeners to critically examine the intersection of faith and violence. It continues to be a source of debate and discussion within the punk rock community.
Don’t Care
Sometimes, you don’t have a care in the world. That’s why I love “Don’t Care,” which expresses a carefree and indifferent attitude towards societal norms and expectations. And another one of their tunes that is barely 30 seconds long.
Leave Me Alone
“Leave Me Alone” is a notable song for those who need personal space. And that explosion you get when people won’t “get off your back.” From the Circle Jerks‘ Wild in the Street album released in 1982, it’s a stellar tune to hear again and again
Question Authority
The quintessential mantra to being a punk is – “Question Authority.” It is also a Circle Jerks‘ song. Released on their Group Sex album, the song reflects the band’s anti-establishment stance and encourages listeners to challenge and question authority figures and societal norms.
When the Shit Hits the Fan
And ending this playlist with probably the best, in my opinion, Circle Jerks‘ song – “When the Shit Hits the Fan.” Calling out America, “When the Shit Hits the Fan” reveals our frustration and the dysfunction of the “Land of the Free.” Funny enough, this song was released 40+ years ago and is still so relevant. Wait, no, that’s not funny … it’s sad. Maybe that’s why we are all so frustrated. Anywho.